Victor Wembanyama made history on Monday night, but it was not enough to help his team win. The 22-year-old French center blocked 12 shots in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals, breaking the previous playoff record of 10 blocks that had stood since 1985. Players like Mark Eaton, Hakeem Olajuwon and Andrew Bynum had previously held this record.
However, the San Antonio Spurs lost 104-102 to the Minnesota Timberwolves, the sixth seed. The game came down to the final shot, when Julian Champagnie's three-pointer at the buzzer missed.
Wembanyama finished with 11 points, 15 rebounds and 12 blocks. Though his defensive performance was extraordinary, he struggled offensively, shooting only 5 of 17 from the field. After the game, Wembanyama said he had used too much energy on defence.
For the Timberwolves, Julius Randle led the way with 21 points and 10 rebounds. Anthony Edwards returned from injury and scored 18 points. Mike Conley made a crucial three-pointer in the fourth quarter as Minnesota outscored San Antonio 35-30 in the final period.
Wembanyama's record-breaking night showed his defensive genius, but the Spurs now trail the series heading into Game 2 on Wednesday.